DBI, SBTS Launch Business Training for Youth

The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), in collaboration with Small Business Training Solutions (SBTS), has announced a new initiative to train Nigerian youth in Business Processing Operations (BPOs), aiming to position Nigeria as a global leader in outsourcing jobs.

This announcement was made during the inauguration of the Stakeholders Engagement on Partnership for Capacity Building and Job Opportunities held on Monday in Abuja.

Digital Bridge Institute and Small Business Training Solutions (SBTS).
Media Stakeholders engagement on partnership for capacity building & opportunities happening now at DBI head office Abuja FCT
We are live. https://t.co/GoDDfBF5zG

— Digital Bridge Institute(DBI) (@DBI_Education) February 17, 2025

This partnership is expected to create 100,000 direct jobs through digital training programs of various durations, depending on the course.

Evelyn Lewis, the CEO of SBTS, revealed that the partnership has a budget of $200 million. “Our goal is clear: to create 100,000 new digital jobs in Africa over the next five years,” she said.

Lewis emphasised that the initiative is not just about skills development, but also about economic empowerment, digital inclusion, and enhancing Africa’s competitiveness in the global economy.

Lewis noted that the ability to adapt and equip people with relevant skills is crucial for both individual success and national progress in today’s digital economy.

She highlighted that access to structured and scalable training programs remains a challenge in Africa, which this partnership aims to address.

“Together, we are leveraging our combined expertise to create an innovative, scalable, and sustainable model that provides globally competitive training programs that are not only theoretical but hands-on and industry-driven,” she explained.

The President and CEO of DBI, David Daser, stated that the partnership aligns with DBI’s mandate to bridge the digital divide in Nigeria.

“Over the years, we have trained thousands of professionals, students, and entrepreneurs, and we remain committed to advancing digital literacy as a catalyst for economic growth,” Daser said.

The training program will focus on entrepreneurship, digital marketing, software development, cybersecurity, and business management, ensuring Nigerian youth are not only skilled but also competitive in the global market.

Beyond skills training, the partnership will offer mentorship, access to funding opportunities, and business incubation support.

Aisha Lewis, a partner at SBTS, emphasised that Nigeria is already home to the world’s next leading workforce.

“By 2030, 170 million digital tech jobs will be added, and we want to make sure that African youths can contribute from home,” she said.

Akin Ogunlade, Head of DBI’s Public Affairs Unit, said in his welcome speech that the collaboration was evidence of a common goal of promoting sustainable development via training, education, and skill development.

Ogunlade urged the media, government organisations, business executives, and other interested parties to back and promote digital skills training as a vital component of the country’s development.

NAN